What is CREON?
CREON (pancrelipase) is a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) used to treat people who cannot digest food normally.
CREON increases your body’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients, which may help relieve some of the symptoms of EPI.
Your doctor will prescribe a dose that is right for you, so take note of your symptoms and discuss them with your doctor during your next appointment.


- Camille E. EPI patient
My life has changed since being diagnosed with EPI, but it has not stopped me from living. I still watch what I eat and have a healthy, balanced diet and take my CREON.
Your quick guide to EPI and CREON
It may seem like there's a lot to learn about EPI and CREON, but this brochure can help you navigate different topics and provide you with the answers you need as you're starting treatment.
CREON & food
CREON should be taken with every meal and snack so it can help your pancreas break down the food you eat. Still have questions about when to take CREON? Watch this short video for clear instructions.
Understanding CREON side effects
CREON may cause serious side effects:
- CREON may increase your chance of having a rare bowel disorder called fibrosing colonopathy especially if taken at a high dose for a long time in children with cystic fibrosis. This condition is serious and may require surgery. The risk of having this condition may be reduced by following the dosing instructions that your healthcare provider gave you.
- Irritation of the inside of your mouth. This can happen if CREON is not swallowed completely.
- Increase in blood uric acid levels (hyperuricemia). This may happen in people with gout, kidney problems, or those who take high doses of pancrelipase, the active ingredient in CREON. Call your healthcare provider if you have pain, stiffness, redness or swelling of your joints.
- Severe allergic reactions. Severe allergic reactions have happened in people taking pancreatic enzyme products like CREON. Stop taking CREON and get emergency treatment right away if you have any of these symptoms: trouble with breathing, skin rashes, swollen lips, or itching.
The most common side effects of CREON include:
- Blood sugar increase (hyperglycemia)
- Blood sugar decrease (hypoglycemia)
- Pain in your stomach (abdominal area)
- Frequent or abnormal bowel movements
- Gas
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Sore throat
- Cough
Call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms
What to expect when you start taking CREON
CREON is designed to support your digestion. Your doctor will work with you to find the appropriate dose.